Adaptive low loss multimodal metasurface based on dual phase-change materials of Sb2S3 and VO2

Abstract

The powerful electromagnetic regulation capability of metasurfaces offers promising strategies for infrared camouflage technology. However, it is difficult to realize dynamic thermal emission control using conventional micro/nanostructures and radiative materials, greatly limiting the camouflage performance in some complicated scenarios. In this work, two types of phase-change material (VO2 and Sb2S3) are incorporated into the design of switchable thermal emitter, which can switch between infrared camouflage and radiative cooling mode. As the temperature rise above 68 °C, the phase transition of VO2 first occurs to enable radiative cooling property (ɛ8–14 μm = 0.64) of the emitter, while its infrared camouflage property can be subsequently activated by continuous heating to the phase transition temperature of Sb2S3 at 270 °C. The symmetric metal–insulator–metal structure ensures high tolerance to both angle and polarization, while the low-loss Sb2S3 layer is expected to maintain the structural integrity through multiple reconfigurations. This study offers a versatile approach to realize dynamic spectral modulation, enabling integrated infrared camouflage and radiative cooling functionalities for future research and applications in camouflage technology and passive thermal management.